Robert, Raquel, and Natalie,

So long ago, I remember when Larry and I shared an apartment on Millbrook and Floradora one summer in 1975. I remember everyone coming over for swim parties. Robert and I kind of adopted a couple stray cats. 

Great times. Sorry I never knew Larry had passed. He was a great man.

Regards,

Jim Guy

2 years have passed since your great loss. It still seems so fresh to have a loved one gone from our sight. May God bless your family in good health and good spirit, knowing cousin Larry is under God's outreached arms.       Margaret (Margie Perez) Sanchez               

Our memories of Larry are many. From the time he and Elena lived in San Jose. We visited often and enjoyed going to Fresno State and San Jose State Football games, dinners, and loved listening to Larry’s storytelling or sometimes just hanging out at their place in barrio horse shoe--a favorite.  Several years later they ended up in Pismo Beach where we visited often, had BBQs, drank and danced while Elena played her Disco Music.  

Sometime in between Larry wanted Joe to take him and his Dad, Frank, fishing at Shaver Lake. Frank caught all the fish!  it was a good day and I remember how happy it made the two of them.  

A few of our last trips were memorable. One was for Larry’s birthday a couple of years ago. Elena rented a Shaver Lake cabin. Bobby and Lolly joined us.  We had a relaxing day at the lake. Elena drove the pontoon boat, while Larry relaxed. We had dinner, drank and danced the night away.  Our last trip together was to Vegas to visit Bobby and Lolly.  Larry called Elena 'honey bunny' all the way there.  It was a great trip.

We will miss you Larry for all the days of our lives. Rest In Peace.

 Grandpa,
      I remember when I was in Jr. Kindergarten  you would pick me up multiple days a week from school. You would always ask me if I wanted anything and I would always say a happy meal from McDonald's. Of course my mom would get mad at you because you always got me food. But I knew I could count on you to get me anything I wanted, from food to a bike, and I am very thankful for that. I still remember the days you and Grandma would take me to the beach, even if you truly did not want to go, you knew that being at the beach and in the water made me happy.  I know you would be proud of me for applying to colleges this year. Whether I go to Arizona, Monterey Bay, or stay here in Fresno, I know you'll always be watching over me. I love you Grandpa. 

I loved my grandpa a lot, he told me funny, weird, but mostly interesting stories about a lot of things which made him a really cool person and I will be missing him a lot in these coming days because him and my grandma Elena would come by during Christmas time. My special and favorite memory of him was one day when me, my sister, my mom, and my dad went to my grandma's and grandpa's house in Pismo and we where playing Scrabble with everyone. While everyone was playing grandpa got a little too happy from his wine and he started yelling that I'm adopted (in a joking matter) which made me and everyone else laugh. 
I love you grandpa

My love Lorenzo,
December 2020 marks 41 years that we met. My life changed for the better with you in it. You gave me a ready made family--daughters Raquel and Natalie. The best in-laws one could hope for in Frank and Bertha. A great brother-in-law Robert,  who you were so proud of, and his wife Lolly. Good son-in-laws Richard and Edward. And, as the years went by, we welcomed grandchildren--Philip, Miranda, Nathan, Victoria and Lorenzo. Nephews Nicholas and Daniel. And only last year, April gave birth to our great grand baby Xochi. What a wonderful family I inherited because of you!

On December 17, 2019 we moved to "our forever home, Fresno." This was to be our last move. We realized we were getting older and that it was important for us to be closer to our family. Little did we know that you would leave us all in 2020--in body, but never in spirit--for you live on within each of us. You are my soulmate, my best friend, the love of my life. You had a good life, and I'm grateful to have spent that with you.

As I revisit your photo collage celebrating you, I'm reminded of how you loved life and how much you were loved. Your brother asked me to create a list of places we vacationed--now that was quite a list! We made so many memories together, as individuals and as a family. The photos are full of laughter; we had some amazing times. 

My heart is saddened as I write this because you are no longer here. You left us so suddenly. I will never know why, only that this is how it was intended. You were always the realist, trying to prepare me for the inevitable in life--whether I liked it or not. I can honestly say that I'm stronger because of you. Do you remember me singing to you "Have I told you lately that I love you? Have I told you that there's no one else above you. You fill my heart with gladness, take away all my sadness. Ease my troubles, that's what you do." I can still see your smile, silly me. But words so true today.

Till we see each other again my love.



My Nino was a kind man who enjoyed a good laugh and a good book.  You could ask him about a topic and he'd give you a great background of it, especially if it was something historical.   He was the type of person who'd help you in a heartbeat and had a tool in his garage for just the occasion.   I'll always remember the stories he told me about his journalism work for newspapers and what he went through in order to get the job done.  He loved his family, loved to learn and he always loved to tell a good joke with his sharp wit!  Rest in peace, Nino

As a reporter and editor for most his professional life, it’s fun to think about how he worked to fit the text of news stories with the CONtext of life at large, especially for the chicano experience. While he worked to bring awareness to migrant laborers’ rights and issues, he himself embodied the “next step” - the children of such laborers ending the cycle, striving for more, and securing places in this American life our grandparents had dreamed for us.
This gave him a decidedly liberal outlook on things, and I know he and my tia Elena were the first to raise awareness about gay rights within my family - something for which I was so quietly grateful. I’m not sure what gave it away (there were A LOT of possibilities), but there’s no doubt in my mind that their preemptive admonishment of the family to be mindful of flippant and degrading language paved the way for me to enjoy my life in a more loving home.
One of the real, last one-on-one times I had with my tío was right before I went to college. Still living in San Jose, Stanford was just a short drive away. When the university offered to let me ‘sample’ a night in their dorms, tío drove me to campus and dropped me off. I was beyond petrified at the overwhelming experience, and things really came to a head in the evening when I was confronted with the reality of showering in a shared bathroom and sleeping on the disgusting floor of my host’s dorm room. I called tío and asked if he could pick me back up so that I could sleep and shower at his place instead. Like a hero, he rescued me from that awkward night, and delivered me back to campus for the rest of the weekend’s activities.
There’s so much I can extrapolate from these memories and interactions, reading the memories that others have shared, vicariously getting to know my tío a little better now. And in celebrating his life this way, I hope my living can honor his memory and further provide context for everything he worked for. For me, for him, and for us.

The loss of tío Larry is a wound to my family. Ruminating on the context of that loss only adds salt to that wound. But it’s hard not to dwell on the missed opportunities to try to connect and learn from his wealth of experiences, not to dwell on sheltering-in-place necessitating our physical separation this last year, or not to dwell on the sour political landscape we have been navigating for the last 4 years.
But while there is undeniably a lot of pain to process, my dad has urged me whole-heartedly to instead focus on the context of his life. The photos of tío Larry that the family has pooled together have been key to this. They play an important visual for a timeline I could only imagine before. And even though I’ll never know (saber) about my tío as well as I wanted to, I KNOW (conocer) the sardonically humorous man who was a trailblazer for the Romero-Perez family, and an advocate for the chicano working class.
My memories of tío begin with a weird movie he made for me as a kid - an oddly edited video cassette where he indoctrinated me to both his quirky humor and his interest in emerging consumer technologies. Interspersed among children’s animation in the video were pastoral buffalo scenes voiced over by him, urging me to bewilder the majesty of these amerindian demigods …. and to consider the mystery of “the cork.” I still don’t get it. But it stimulated my mind, and became a running joke growing up.
Going camping as a kid, he was ahead of his time with his keen interest in revolutionizing the outdoor living experience - things that I think are pretty basic for most leisure campers nowadays, like outdoor showers, inflatable mattresses, or specially-engineered/portable outdoor stoves and cooking ware. This is minor in the greater scheme of things, yet his eagerness to find the latest gadget to make life easier or fun is something I will always find to be definitive of his personality. It used to seem as though stores like The Sharper Image were made for him.

There are so many wonderful and funny memories of my dad. My dad was everything. He was the smartest person I knew and the funniest. His humor was out there and I loved every bit of it! I always looked up to Dad, no matter what.  He was perfect in my eyes. Of course he was perfect! Look who his father was. And even though my dad lived in San Jose for many years when I was growing up, I never felt that he wasn't present in my life. He would call wherever he was reporting from or traveling to.  Yes, I missed him every second of everyday, as I do now, but I felt he always made up for it.   And as I got older, our connection became stronger and I am so grateful for that. 
 Within minutes after my mom passed away, my phone rang and it was Daddy and Elena. He was crying and crying. And of course I was crying, but he didn't tell me to stop. He didn't tell me to be strong either. He was just there for me, knowing what I was going through. He wanted me to know that him and Elena were there for me. And they were. That's the kind of dad I had. Perfect. Caring.
 His death is still so unbelievable and heartbreaking for all of us. But one thing I know, he wouldn't want any of us to be sad or to cry for him. He would hate that. And If I can say something to my dad, it would be this:
Daddy, thank you. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for being a part of shaping my life. Thank you for always asking if I needed help or for your advice. Thank you for being such a good grandpa to my kids, Raquel's kids, and Erica's kids. Thank you for wanting the best for me and thank you for supporting me thru and thru. Thank you for showing me good from bad. Thank you for making me laugh the way that you had. Thank you for being such an extraordinary man. But most of all, thank you for being my dad. I Love You Daddy, forever & always.

Message by Robert

Eight years age difference.  Our early lives are kind of lost because I was just a young kid and you were well on your way to becoming an adult.  But you know?  You never left me behind or ignored me.  You always tried to be in my life.  From letting me terrorize your model cars and movie monster model collections, to taking me along with you on your job working at the Sunset Drive-In.  What fond memories I had and how I so idolized my big brother!   Later on, you and I ended up going to Fresno State at the same time.  You would think that was weird but it actually renewed our connection as brothers.  We rented our parents home together and did a lot of things together.  Sometimes we couldn’t be more opposite of each other.  You the studious and reliable one, me the “wild child” musician, you would think we would drive each crazy or at least go our separate ways, but this was never the case!  You had this ability to read me.  You knew when to be a friend and roommate, or when it was time to put on the big brother hat and set me straight and/or give me sound life advise.  Later on, both married, we had many wonderful times, many amazing trips, and a great friendship.  What a wonderful and brilliant brother I had!  

I will miss you Larry!

Your Brother,   
Robert   


On behalf of the Pina Sisters—Mary Pina Medina, Alice Pina Solom, Irma Pina Godfrey, and Martha Pina

We memorialize our beloved brother-in-law Larry Romero, remembering him as a soft-spoken and intelligent man, loved by everyone that knew him. 
 ~Mary remembers Larry as a loving husband to our sister Elena for 40 years, and a dedicated father and grandfather. Larry spoke proudly of his daughters and son-in-laws, and lovingly of all his grandchildren. 
 ~Alice fondly recalls the many fun times when the family got together that Larry was a genuinely friendly and nice man, knowledgeable and well read in national and global current events. He voraciously read books of many genres. When he worked as a newspaper reporter, he wrote prolifically on many assignments, but most notably he recalled his on-assignment experience of the devastation of the Mexico City earthquake. An amazing man with a quick mind, Larry backed up his knowledge of the subject by recalling and referencing his source of information.
 ~Irma states that there are so many memories from the good old days at Caucus with all the kids and “familia” staying at the Boswell’s home rental. Gary and Larry talked endlessly about football! Go 49ers! RIP Larry, until we see you again.
  ~Elida and Bob recall with nostalgia the many vacations and world trips they took together. Visiting Larry and Elena in their Pismo home was both memorable and enjoyable—we will miss you Larry!
 ~Martha reminisced about the time she lived in Fresno with our mother. She remembers Larry warmly, with an easy smile who was able to relate with everyone he met. 
Larry will be greatly missed by all of us. 


In Loving Memory of Lorenzo Romero: Safely Home
I am home in Heaven, dear ones; Oh, so happy and so bright! There is perfect joy and beauty in this everlasting light. All the pain and grief is over, every restless tossing passed; I am now at peace forever, safely home in Heaven at last. Did you wonder I so calmly trod the valley of the shade? Oh, but Jesus’ love illumined every dark and fearful glade. And He came Himself to meet me in that way so hard to tread; And withJesus’ arm to lean on, could I have one doubt or dread? Then you must not grieve so sorely, for I love you dearly still; Try to look beyond earth’s shadows, pray to trust our Father’s will. There is work still waiting for you, so you must not idly stand; Do it now, while life remaineth—you shall rest in Jesus’ land. When that work is all completed, He will gently call you home; Oh the rapture of that meeting, oh the joy to see you come! “May God’s love comfort you, my dearest sister. I am here for you. Love and prayers, Alice Solom”



The tender grace of Christ is a refuge like no other in our times of deepest need. He alone understands our sorrow and draws near with compassion to wipe away our tears. Praying that His comfort and assurance will give you peace in your time of loss. With Deepest Sympathy. “Tia Elena, I want you to know that I love you and that we are here for you and anything you need. What can one say when something like this happens? We understand that there are no words that can make you feel better or make the pain go away. Just know that I am here for you. With all our love and sympathy, Mark & Jamie Herrera”

When the tide draws away, it leaves behind bright seashells on the sand. Thinking of you at this difficult time and wishing you the healing power of many beautiful memories. “I saw this card and it reminded me of you and Larry when you lived in Pismo, and thought ‘I’ll bet you and Larry saw many seashells together and have lots of beautiful memories!’ Those memories you will hold forever in your heart. Praying God’s helping arms will ease your sorrow. Blessings to you and the Romero family. Love you Sis, Gary & Irma Godfrey“

Our loved ones never truly leave us...they live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared, and the love they brought into our lives. Wishing you peace in your time of sorrow. “We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know you have our love and support. We love you, Carol Roberts & Pat Bezak”



As you grieve the loss of your husband. Love expressed is never lost, for God brings love to life; His hand creates the precious bond between a man and wife. With grace He shelters memories held deep within the heart; To strengthen and to comfort them whenever they’re apart. For God will call them home one day, eternity to gain; His arms outstretched to welcome one, the other to sustain. Praying God will comfort you and bless the memories your heart holds. With prayer and Sympathy. “May all the wonderful memories of Larry comfort your heart today and forever. Larry will live in our hearts always. ~Margie Pina 
Love you Sis. Love you Larry. ~Your brother Joe Pina”


There are no words...but there are heartfelt wishes and healing thoughts, and all are being sent your way to help comfort you during this difficult time.  With Sympathy.  
Elena, my primo always was kind and thoughtful.  He had a giving, warm personality.  I was saddened to hear of his passing.  Please know we are thinking of you and your family, and know we are praying for all of you.  Love you, Dan & Elisa Thorpe.  

Dearest Raquel,  Like so many others we are still in shock.  I've thought a lot about your dad and thought I would share a little about what he meant to me and the impact he had on my life.  He inspired me to go to college and follow my dreams outside of Fresno.  He was funny, so easy to talk to, and made Mike feel like part of the family.  His is smart and always challenged my thinking.  He was always fun to be around and had such a big heart.  I was proud to call him my uncle and loved bragging about him.  He was so loved and it's hard to believe he is with our ancestors now.  The lessons he taught me will be with me forever.  

Your beloved Larry had a gift of making me and my family feel welcomed whenever we were around him.   I have a special memory of Kirk, calling out, "Uncle Larry, can I go fishing with you!" 40 years ago...So sweet!   This was Larry!  He touched so many of us.  He loved his family and extended family.  We love you Uncle Larry.  
~The Medinas.   

I remember the day Larry bought a brand new 4 Runner and joined about 15 individuals consisting of both family and friends at Pismo Beach for a camping trip.  We all Loved going to Pismo, but Larry and Elena surprised us all when they moved from Fresno and bought a home in Pismo.  They would invite us to visit them and when we went, Larry and Elena were so hospitable and made Bea and I feel at home.  I considered Larry more of a brother than a nephew  and whenever we would spend quality time together , drinking  Chinaco tequila, which happened to be his favorite, we would reminisce and laugh about the memorable and special times the "Brown Eyed Kids" experienced back in the day.  Testimony commemorating  Larry as a loving, intelligent and humble man is a revelation of his life.  Lasting moments and memories will always be cherished.    Lucio Perez

I was shocked and saddened by the news of my primo Lorenzo passing.  I want to relate a story that came to mind as I mourn and think about Lorenzo and the affect that he had on me at a very young age.  As a family we would visit each other on Sunday's a day of rest for the adults.  Lorenzo and I were between the ages of 3 or 4 years old, I being 8 months older.  We would  play, laugh, and talk as young kids do.  We came into the house with sweat on our brows from running and playing and wanted a drink of water.  Tia Berta told us to rest awhile before going back outside.  Being Sunday Lorenzo went and   got the Sunday funnies as they were call back then.  He then started reading them to me,  WHAT!  I could not believe.  it  From that day on I applied myself to become a better student.  Rest in peace primo and thank you for the push.  
Bern

I am saddened to here of my cousin's passing. Having just seen his daughter and brother at Tia Jessie's funeral and being told he was not well.  A life with God is never lost. We all go back from which we came. GOD knew us before we were in our mother's womb. We have Gods promise of many wonderful things to come. Keep the faith in all trials.  God bless the entire family in your time of grief. 

OBITUARY

Lorenzo Perez Romero

July 12, 1949 – November 7, 2020

Lisle Funeral Home

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